‘Saim Ayub won’t play Champions Trophy 2025'

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has confirmed that young batter Saim Ayub will miss the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 due to ankle injury.

Saim sustained the injury on the opening day of the Cape Town Test against South Africa and was initially ruled out for six weeks. He is currently in London for treatment and further evaluation of his condition.

Afridi spoke about Saim’s recovery, sharing details of their recent conversation. "I spoke to Saim Ayub last night. He mentioned that he needs three weeks before starting rehab. I advised him to take his time recovering because even a minor injury, if not fully healed, can lead to long-term issues. You're young and have a bright future ahead, so it's better to recover completely," he stated.

Saim was initially ruled out for six weeks, which will cause him to miss the upcoming two-match home Test series against the West Indies and the tri-nation series against New Zealand and South Africa.

To ensure he recovers in time for the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has sent Ayub to London with assistant coach Azhar Mahmood for treatment.

"Saim Ayub is a valuable asset for Pakistan cricket," Naqvi said. "We are providing him with the best possible medical care and resources. I am praying for his swift recovery and will continue to monitor his progress closely," he added.

The PCB is awaiting a final update on his fitness before finalizing the national squad for the ICC Champions Trophy, scheduled to take place from February 19 to March 9.

Sources within the PCB have revealed that the board has decided not to announce a provisional squad for the tournament and will instead submit the names directly to the International Cricket Council (ICC).

The final squad will be determined only after Ayub's fitness status is confirmed. The squad is expected to be finalised by February 11, after which it will be submitted for ICC approval.

Saim, despite being in the early stages of his international career, has already caught the eye with his stellar performances.

The 22-year-old made his international debut against Afghanistan in March 2023 and has quickly accumulated 44 international caps.

His ODI record stands out three centuries and a half-century in just nine matches showcasing his ability to thrive under pressure. His aggressive yet composed batting style has made him a standout performer for Pakistan.

The left-handed batter was instrumental in Pakistan's 3-0 whitewash of South Africa in the three-match ODI series last year, scoring two centuries and earning Player of the Series honors.